Academy Programs Power Hands-on Marine Biology Experience

The Indian River Lagoon became the classroom for a day for Jupiter Community High School students in the Environmental Research and Field Studies Academy.

"Actually being in the environment and then seeing all the different populations and measuring and holding the fish, it was cool," said Emery, a tenth grader at Jupiter Community High School.

For more than 30 years, the academy has provided students with extraordinary opportunities to gain real-world scientific skills right in their backyards. Students recently used a 55-foot bag seine net to carefully collect, measure, and release juvenile fish. The students gathered critical data on species identification and population sizes.

“It was fun. It was something I’ve never done before. It was a lot of work, but it was cool seeing all the different types of fish and stuff,” said Piper, also a tenth grade student at Jupiter High.

Collaborating with community partners like the Loxahatchee River Environmental Control District, the four-year program connects classroom teachings and equipment training directly to practical fieldwork. Instructors note that recent recovery in local seagrass growth has led to higher species diversity and larger fish catches compared to previous years, offering students a front-row seat to environmental recovery.

These immersive experiences frequently spark a lifelong passion for the natural world, inspiring participating students to pursue environmental science degrees and meaningful careers.

"It's something very unique and needed," said Aaron Lichtig, a teacher at Jupiter High. “There are kids that love being outdoors, and this is like one of the only kind of academies or school situations where they get to do something like this on a regular basis.” 

By connecting young minds with local ecosystems and expert mentors, Jupiter High provides unmatched educational pathways where every student can discover their passion and succeed.